West Fork Big Creek Dam B-117 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
West Fork Big Creek Dam B-117, also known as Site B-117, is a local government-owned earth dam located in Bethany, Missouri.
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Summary
Designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1994, this dam primarily serves the purpose of flood risk reduction along the TR-West Fork Big Creek. Standing at a height of 27.5 feet with a structural height of 28 feet and a length of 370 feet, this dam has a storage capacity of 137 acre-feet and a drainage area of 320 square miles.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, West Fork Big Creek Dam B-117 plays a crucial role in managing water resources in Harrison County, Missouri. Although not state-regulated or inspected, this dam has been constructed with stone core and soil foundation to withstand potential flood events. The spillway, with a width of 25 feet, is uncontrolled, and there are no outlet gates associated with this structure.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, West Fork Big Creek Dam B-117 represents a significant infrastructure for flood risk mitigation in the region. Its strategic location and design by the Natural Resources Conservation Service highlight the importance of sustainable water management practices in ensuring community resilience to extreme weather events. As a key element in the local flood control system, this dam contributes to the overall safety and protection of the residents living downstream along the TR-West Fork Big Creek.
Year Completed |
1994 |
Dam Length |
370 |
Dam Height |
27.5 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WEST FORK BIG CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11 |
Hydraulic Height |
27.5 |
Drainage Area |
320 |
Nid Storage |
137 |
Structural Height |
28 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
West Fork Big Creek Dam B-117